Motivations, barriers and sustainability of university entrepreneurship in Tarija, Bolivia
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.26439/ddee2026.n009.8809Keywords:
entrepreneurship, university students, motivation, barriers, sustainabilityAbstract
This study analyzes the motivations, barriers, and sustainability conditions influencing the creation and continuation of university student ventures in Tarija, Bolivia. A mixed-methods, cross-sectional, and descriptive design was applied. The quantitative component consisted of 361 surveys administered to students from six universities in the region, while the qualitative component included 20 semi-structured interviews with graduates who had active or discontinued ventures. The analysis combined descriptive and correlational statistics with thematic coding and triangulation to enhance the validity of the findings. The results reveal a high level of entrepreneurial intention among students, with most initiatives concentrated in commerce, gastronomy, and services. However, a considerable proportion of ventures are currently paused or have been abandoned. The main motivations identified relate to the pursuit of economic independence, limited access to formal employment, and vocational interests. The most frequent barriers include limited financing, fear of failure, lack of time to balance academic and entrepreneurial activities, and weak connections with institutional support networks. It is concluded that strengthening university entrepreneurship in Tarija requires financial mechanisms adapted to student profiles, practical training supported by continuous mentoring, and greater integration of the institutional ecosystem to promote the sustainability of student ventures.
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